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In my area a will prepared by a lawyer runs about $450. So I have been looking a software that is available. What do you folks recommend? My wallet says use the CD Rom but my brain says use a lawyer. Any recommendations, warnings, tips?
If it is a simple will for a moderate estate the CD or pre-printed form route works just fine. If you anticipate any conflicts, require much work by the executor, or have enough assets that estate taxes will be due it would be prudent to consult an expert.
$450 seems like a bargain for getting a will drawn up by an attorney. Spend the extra money now and sleep well at night, knowing that your affairs are in order.
I used the Willmaker software years ago and it worked fine because my situation was simpler back then. I recently had an attorney do a new will and trust for me because my situation has become a little more complicated.
If you just need a simple will that software is fine. If you are dealing with blended families, first marriage children, step children, etc. spend the money on a lawyer.
Thanks guys! I appreciate the feedback. I perceive my estate as being pretty simple. No immediate family members alive. Leaving the bulk to my partner, one investment will be divided among long time friends. So with that limited info, do you think the software will suffice?
I've been the executor of a couple of small wills, one done on pre-printed forms and one hand written and there was no problem. If there is no property changing hands you don't even need to probate the will most of the time. Joint ownership, good beneficiary documentation, and transfer on death accounts can make small estates very simple.
Thanks guys! I appreciate the feedback. I perceive my estate as being pretty simple. No immediate family members alive. Leaving the bulk to my partner, one investment will be divided among long time friends. So with that limited info, do you think the software will suffice?
Since your estate is not passing to immediate family members, I'd hire the attorney. Of course, for $450 I'd hire the attorney anyway but I'm pretty conservative about such affairs.
Location: Jonquil City (aka Smyrna) Georgia- by Atlanta
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I would advise you to use the software if you are:
1. Single or married only once to the person you are married to now.
2. Total assets of less than $250,000 including your home
3. You have no adopted or step children (all your children belong to you and your only wife)
Otherwise use an attorney.
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